HENDERSON, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders have reached a significant milestone by securing a lucrative contract extension for their star defensive end, Maxx Crosby. This remarkable deal cements Crosby’s status as the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The contract, extending over three years, is valued at an impressive $106.5 million, with $91.5 million guaranteed. The details were confirmed by an undisclosed source familiar with the negotiation, although the financial specifics have yet to be officially announced.
With an average annual salary of $35.5 million, Crosby’s new agreement surpasses the previous non-quarterback salary record held by Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who was earning $35 million annually according to financial insights. Despite the attention his contract is receiving, Crosby maintains that his main objective is contributing to his team’s success on the field rather than focusing on the monetary aspect. At a press conference on Wednesday, he emphasized his commitment to the Raiders, saying, “I’ve said it a million times, I feel like I was meant to be a Raider. I love being here. I love the people. You look at all the legends that created what this brand is, and that’s winning.”
Since being selected in the fourth round of the 2019 draft, Crosby has emerged as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL, amassing an impressive 59.5 sacks. He is poised to become just the third player in Raiders history since 1982 to reach the 60-sack milestone. In a statement, General Manager John Spytek highlighted Crosby’s dedication to future success, stating, “I told him last night, ‘This isn’t for what you’ve done. This is for what you’re about to do.’ He’s about chasing championships, and so are we. That’s why we’re excited to start.”
Crosby is known for his grit and determination, playing through injuries despite having missed the final four games of the last season due to ankle surgery. He is optimistic about a swift recovery, saying, “I’m getting close. Pete Carroll was in there working on my ankle this morning,” referring humorously to his coach. During Carroll’s introductory press conference in January, he emphasized how integral Crosby is to the team’s plans, stating, “There’s no way we could find anybody that is more focused and directed and committed to giving everything he’s got to every opportunity he’s going to get.”
While acknowledging last season’s disappointments, in which Crosby recorded 7.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss compared to his previous exemplary performances, he is determined to rise beyond that. His past achievements earned him second-team All-Pro honors twice between 2021 and 2023. Looking forward, Crosby remarked, “I’m not going to sit here and make a bunch of big predictions about what I’m going to do next year. I’m focused on being the best version of me today.” His dedication remains unwavering as he continues honing his skills and preparing for the next season.
In related news, the Raiders have bolstered their roster by signing guard Alex Cappa. Cappa spent the previous three seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals and began his NFL career after being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2018. With 96 career starts, he brings valuable experience to the offensive line, contributing further to the Raiders’ aspirations for a successful upcoming season.
